How the Superintendent Role is Evolving in Construction

Innovation, purpose-built tools, and the labor shortage have initiated an unexpected shift in roles across the construction industry, especially when it comes to superintendents. Traditionally, the majority of superintendents have a background in the trades and deeply engrained experience from the field. Now, more than ever, superintendents are entering the role from a variety of backgrounds, creating a unique mix of experiences, perspectives, and approaches to the role. 

 In this episode, we are sitting down with Erin Saiki, who pivoted from her career in Civil Engineering and now has fully embraced the superintendent role at DPR Construction. We explore her career journey and how she sees the superintendent role evolving alongside the construction industry. 

Here’s what we cover: 

• Erin’s unique career path from civil engineer to superintendent 
• The growing variety of experiences and leadership styles among today’s superintendents 
• The superintendent’s role in streamlining and shortening project schedules 
• The rising importance of trade skills for future superintendents 
• How purpose-built tools are bridging the gap for newer superintendents 
• How superintendents can empower the field more effectively 

Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.